Chickenpox Vaccine
in Massachusetts

The varicella vaccination, sometimes known as the chickenpox vaccine, can help you avoid getting chickenpox. You can make an informed health care decision for yourself and your family by learning more about what this vaccination accomplishes and who should get it.

Chickenpox vaccination: what everyone should know

The varicella-zoster virus causes chickenpox, which is a highly contagious disease. The major symptom of chickenpox, according to the CDC, is an itchy, blister-like rash that occurs first on the chest, back, and face before spreading to the rest of the body. Fever and exhaustion are two other symptoms.

According to the CDC, two doses of the chickenpox vaccine are around 90% effective in preventing chickenpox, which means you could still develop the disease after being vaccinated. This vaccine is suggested for children, adolescents, and adults who have never had chickenpox or been immunized against it.

Who needs the chickenpox vaccine?

The chickenpox vaccination should be given in two doses to children, teens, and adults, according to the CDC.

The first dose of the chickenpox vaccine should be given to children between the ages of 12 and 15, and the second dose between the ages of four and six. The CDC notes that if the second dose is given at least three months following the first, children may take it at a younger age.

Those aged 13 and up who have never had chickenpox or received the vaccination should receive two doses separated by at least 28 days. The chickenpox vaccine is especially crucial for healthcare workers, teachers, college students, nursing home residents, and overseas travelers, according to the CDC..

Talk to your healthcare provider about whether you may need the chickenpox vaccine based on your health situation.

Who should not get the chickenpox vaccine?

According to the CDC, if you have signs of immunity to chickenpox, you don't need the vaccine. Immunity can be demonstrated by being born in the United States before 1980 and having a documented diagnosis of chickenpox, among other things.

Other people who should not get the chickenpox vaccine, according to the CDC, include:

• Those who have had a potentially fatal adverse reaction to the chickenpox vaccination or any of its components.
• Those who are moderately or severely unwell at the time of their chickenpox vaccination appointment.
  Women who are expecting children.

Before taking the chickenpox vaccine, certain people should see their doctors. This includes, according to the CDC:

• Those who have an illness of the immune system, such as HIV or AIDS.
• Those who have cancer or are being treated for cancer with radiation or medicines.
• Those who have received a blood transfusion recently.

Two types of chickenpox vaccines

In the United States, two types of chickenpox vaccinations are now approved for usage. According to the CDC, the vaccinations' brand names are Varivax® and ProQuad®.

Varivax®

Only the chickenpox vaccine is included in Varivax®. This vaccination is only approved for adults, teenagers, and children aged 12 months and up.

ProQuad®

ProQuad® is a vaccine that combines the chickenpox vaccine with the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines. According to the CDC, this vaccination is only approved for children aged 12 months to 12 years.

Getting vaccinated after you are exposed to chickenpox

The CDC recommends getting vaccinated for chickenpox within three to five days of exposure if you have been exposed to the virus. It goes on to say that even if you've been exposed for more than five days, you should get two doses of the vaccination. At least 28 days should pass between each of these dosages.

Childcare and school chickenpox vaccine requirements

Many states have legislation requiring children to get vaccinated against chickenpox whether they attend public school, private school, or a daycare center. According to the CDC, all states give medical exemptions for the chickenpox vaccine, and some states additionally provide religious and/or philosophical exemptions.

Based on your family's religious and philosophical beliefs, as well as your children's medical history, your healthcare practitioner can talk to you in greater depth about whether or not your children should have the chickenpox vaccination.

How can parents pay for the chickenpox vaccine?

According to the CDC, most health insurance plans cover the chickenpox vaccine. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program may be able to assist you if your health insurance plan does not cover the cost of the chickenpox vaccination for your children. To find out if you're eligible for financial aid through this program, the CDC recommends contacting VFC directly.